I have gone from having to rest halfway up the staircase and collapsing at the top, sweating, and out of breath, to climbing 1010 stairs in a single workout. I was still exhausted, sweating and out of breath, but I surprised even myself with my performance today.

I am not making excuses anymore.

Whatever I thought I couldn’t do in my mind has turned to dust. That wall has crumbled and fallen. I am in control of who I become. I have the strength and courage to rise and rise again. I am unstoppable.

I don’t feel bad about how I look. I don’t feel ashamed. I survived some pretty gnarly stuff and it took its toll. Now I get to break free from that prison. The possibility and hope in the future is so exciting I’ve hardly stopped smiling in days.

There is no price tag on this joy. There is no shortcut. This is the gift I give myself through every excruciating moment in the gym. This is me, honoring my journey and pulling every bit of courage I have gained over the past three years.

This is me capitalizing on pain. This is me winning. I don’t care how long it takes, I am just so deeply grateful I am going in the right direction.